Palin group tries to derail Sebelius HHS confirmation

ByJimmy OrrApril 28, 2009

The Senate is on the verge of confirming President Barack Obama's nominee for Secretary of Health and Human Services. Debate begins this morning, with a vote anticipated later in the day. Kathleen Sebelius is expected to get the 60 votes needed in the Democratic-led Senate.

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Congratulations, you got the job. Now fix the Swine Flu problem ...

If things go right for Kansas Governor Kathy Sebelius, that'll be her first task as President Obama's Secretary of Health and Human Services. Debate begins this morning over her confirmation, and the vote is expected this afternoon.

She needs 60 votes to clear confirmation and it looks like she'll get the nod.

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Although these are supporters of Palin, it's not as though she's leading the charge against Sebelius. "The organization has no formal connection to the governor," notes the Anchorage Daily News.

Sam I am

All eyes will be on Kansas Senator Sam Brownback today to see how he votes.

The Kansas City Star reports that although he was expected to vote in favor of Sebelius' confirmation, his vote has softened.

"His office Monday declined to reveal how the staunchly anti-abortion Republican will vote, but last week Brownback told a reporter Sebelius’ recent veto of new abortion regulations made it 'harder and harder' for him to vote yes on the Democrat’s nomination."

By voting for Sebelius he raises the risk of alienating pro-life groups in Kansas -- organizations that he'll want on his side during his forthcoming gubernatorial run.